Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of nourishment that warms you from the inside out, this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is just what you need! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines wholesome ingredients with delightful flavors. Whether you’re battling a cold, winding down after a busy day, or simply want to gather your loved ones around the table, this soup is perfect for any occasion.

This one-pot wonder features tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and the golden goodness of turmeric. It’s not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients that help support your body’s defenses. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead for those hectic weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just one pot needed, clean-up is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will enjoy this hearty soup packed with flavor and nutrition.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just store in the fridge or freeze for later!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices creates a warm, inviting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Health Boosting: Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making this soup great for wellness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup boasts an array of colorful veggies and flavorful spices that make each bowl a delight. Here’s what you’ll need:

Vegetables

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 large leek, white and light green parts only, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
• 3 large carrots, thinly sliced
• 3 stalks celery, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped

Spices and Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Base Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 13.5 ounce can coconut milk

Chicken

• 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless thighs or breasts

Optional Additions

• 1 10 ounce bag frozen peas (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste

Variations

The beauty of this soup lies in its flexibility! Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more greens: Toss in some kale or spinach towards the end for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some red pepper flakes or fresh ginger for warmth.
• Switch up the broth: For a lighter option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How to Make Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large soup pot. Add onions, leeks, carrots, celery, and kosher salt. Sauté these ingredients together until the leeks are soft and starting to caramelize—about 14-16 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds a sweet base flavor for your soup!

Step 2: Add Spices

Next, stir in chopped garlic along with turmeric and poultry seasoning. Continue sautéing for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. This helps release the essential oils from the spices and infuses your soup with that lovely aroma.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk while adding raw chicken pieces to the pot. Scrape up any bits stuck on the bottom—it all adds flavor! Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer; ensure the chicken is submerged under the liquid. Partially cover and let it simmer on low for about 15-20 minutes until everything is tender.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Once cooked through, carefully remove the chicken from the pot onto a cutting board. Let it cool slightly before cutting into bite-sized pieces or shredding with two forks. Return the chicken back to the pot along with frozen peas (if using) and fresh parsley. Allow everything to warm through—about 5 minutes—until those peas are bright green!

Step 5: Season & Serve

Finally, taste your soup and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top if desired. Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Making this hearty and nourishing soup is a breeze, and with these expert tips, you’ll ensure it’s bursting with flavor and goodness!

• Prep Your Veggies Ahead: Chopping your onions, leeks, carrots, and celery in advance saves time when you’re ready to cook. This allows you to focus on enjoying the process and minimizes any last-minute scrambling.

• Use Fresh Spices: If possible, buy whole spices and grind them just before use. Freshly ground turmeric and poultry seasoning have more vibrant flavors and health benefits, enhancing both the taste and nutritional value of your soup.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. Conversely, if you like it brothier, feel free to add more chicken broth or coconut milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. This not only adds variety but also packs in more nutrients, making your soup even healthier!

• Make It Ahead of Time: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare a big batch for meal prep, and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How to Serve Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Serving this delightful soup can be as fun as making it! With just a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley brightens up the appearance and adds a pop of freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Offering lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze some juice over their bowl for an extra zing that complements the turmeric beautifully.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, providing chili flakes can add a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy coconut milk.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Whole Grain Bread: A slice of warm whole grain bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. Its hearty texture complements the creamy broth wonderfully.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside seasonal roasted veggies like broccoli or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition and flavor depth.
• Simple Green Salad: A mixed green salad topped with avocado slices and a tangy vinaigrette is an excellent way to incorporate more greens into your meal while keeping things light.

Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that nourishes both body and soul.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch and have nourishing meals ready to go throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you made a large batch, consider dividing it into smaller portions for easier reheating.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 3 months.
• To save space, lay freezer bags flat until frozen, then stack them upright.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup that might help you out!

Can I use other vegetables in this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. Just make sure they are cooked until tender before serving.

Is this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup suitable for freezing?

Yes! This soup freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. It will last for about 3 months in the freezer.

How long can I store leftovers of the Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup?

You can keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them as mentioned above!

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

What makes this soup anti-inflammatory?

The key ingredient, turmeric, contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Combined with other fresh ingredients like garlic and ginger, it’s a nutritious choice!

Final Thoughts

This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is truly special—a warm hug in a bowl that nourishes both body and soul. I hope you enjoy making this comforting dish as much as I do! It’s perfect for chilly nights or whenever you need a little extra love in your life. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!